Jaylen Reed: Everything you need to know

Reed registered 14 tackles (nine solo) and one fumble recovery across seven regular-season games for the Texans in 2025. It was an injury-riddled year for the rookie sixth-rounder, who opened the regular season on injured reserve due to an ankle injury. He made his NFL debut in Week 7 and played mostly served on special teams outside of Week 12 against the Bills, when he started at safety and logged 12 tackles (nine solo) and a fumble recovery. However, Reed broke the metal plate in his forearm the following week against the Colts, an injury that necessitated another stint on IR, though he was activated prior to the Texans' AFC wild-card game against the Steelers. It's worth noting that Reed was the Texans' starting safety for the team's two playoff games in the absence of M.J. Stewart (quadriceps - IR), and the former could be Houston's starter in 2026 alongside Calen Bullock.

Reed (knee) tallied three tackles (one solo) during Monday's 30-6 wild-card playoff round win over Pittsburgh. Reed was briefly forced off the field Monday, but per Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2, he managed to return to action. The rookie sixth-round pick ended the regular season on IR but managed to return to action in time for Houston's playoff opener, and while he could be listed on the injury report ahead of Sunday's divisional-round matchup on the road against New England, it appears Reed will be able to play through any issues relating to his knee.

Reed (knee) is questionable to return to Monday's wild-card game against Pittsburgh. Reed ended the regular season on IR with a forearm injury but was able to return for Monday's wild-card game. However, he's now dealing with a knee issue and isn't certain to be able to re-enter the game. Reed drew a start at safety for the Texans on Monday, and Myles Bryant entered in his place following the injury.